A picture is worth a thousand words. So, besides just talking, think of taking along things to show your date, to illustrate what you're up to, or something interesting that you're into. For example: a newspaper article about you or whatever you're interested in, an award you won, a gift you got from your mother, a photo of your latest vacation. ....

Be natural as you can in saying what you want to say. Second-guessing what the other person wants to hear, and being self-conscious about what you say only makes you come across stilted and unnatural. but a few topics are best to avoid on your first date: * Obviously, noticing other attractive people and pointing them out. This only makes the....

Avoid falling into the "I don't know" syndrome. This is one of my big rules about dating. Not only does it sound boring to say you don't know, but it is never true. Whenever someone is telling me about a date and answers a question of mine with "I don't know," I refuse to accept that as an answer and encourage them to come up wi...

You might be good at small talk, but still face certain pitfalls. To refine your technique and really be good at capturing -- and keeping -- someone's attention, keep in mind the following. Rambling Have you ever been in a conversation with someone and you feel like you can put down the phone, or even walk a way, and they would still be...

The art of conversation involves having the confidence to speak freely about whatever comes to your mind (without self-consciousness or second-guessing yourself), but also in a manner that engages the other person to be interested in what you are saying and feel like you are interested in them as well. Your conversation can cover many types of.....

Keep in mind these tips to help avoid disastrous dates: * DON'T put yourself in uncomfortable situations (such as ordering messy food -- unless you're into an erotic feeding scene, like from the movie 9 1/2 Weeks). * DON'T suggest overly expensive places or events for a first date unless you clarify who's paying. * DON'T look at other...

Finally! It's time for your date. Here are some tips to help things run smoothly: * DO feel confident. * DO look your best. * DO smile. * DO address your date by name frequently. * DO compliment your date. * DO listen attentively and repeat things your date says. * DO be honest about whether you're interested in seeing the.....

Tokens on the first date are a nice touch, as long as you don't go overboard (too big, too expensive) and look like you're over-anxious to please. Flowers, some small token you know a person would like (a favorite CD), or something associated to what you're about to do on your date (a can of tennis balls) are appropriate. Back to First Date